Tag: Christ

“Choose Life”

“As the horizon remains constant, the journey each day requires careful judgment. We encounter intersections where responsibilities intersect, understanding is limited, or insight must develop…”

Brent Pollard

“I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30.19 NASB95)

From Moses’ farewell on the plains of Moab to the final verses of the New Testament, Scripture conveys a single message: God offers each generation a clear, dual choice—life in communion with Him or death in estrangement from Him. Joshua pressed the same call: “Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24.15 NASB95). Jesus contrasts the narrow path that leads to life with the broad road that leads to destruction (Matthew 7.13-14), proclaiming, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10.10 NASB95). Paul further distills it: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6.23 NASB). John adds his testimony: “He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life” (1 John 5.12 NASB95). The distinction remains clear throughout the ages, and the options persist without alteration.

Yet, in this sacred context, “life” signifies a profound spiritual connection rather than a comfort guarantee. The essence of eternal life is captured in the intimate knowledge of the Father and the Son, as articulated in John 17:3. It is expressed beautifully in the words, “In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever,” from Psalm 16.11 (NASB95). He warns that tribulation will accompany discipleship (John 16.33). The apostles discovered the secret of contentment in both abundance and scarcity, as their strength was rooted in Christ rather than their situations (Philippians 4.12–13)—a life “hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3.3 NASB95). All the while, God “has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1.3)—riches that suffering cannot erode.

As the horizon remains constant, the journey each day requires careful judgment. We encounter intersections where responsibilities intersect, understanding is limited, or insight must develop (Luke 13.10‑17; Acts 16.6‑10; Proverbs 26.4‑5). The sacred writings, the profound love for God and our fellow man, the wisdom bestowed by the Spirit, and the guidance of the body of Christ illuminate our path and direct our course (2 Timothy 3.16-17; Matthew 22.37-40; James 1.5; Proverbs 11:14). “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119.105 NASB95), guiding us step by step. These guardrails protect us from the hard-edged legalism that once blighted the Pharisees and the quicksand of relativism (Mark 9.40; Matthew 23.23).

The Bible’s message is clear and comprehensive: There are two ultimate paths before us, and to follow the path of life, we must embrace a humble heart and the Spirit. Embracing life is not merely a single decision to mark off a list; it is an exquisite act of faithful trust—at times distinct, uncertain, yet always illuminated by the unwavering truth of God’s Word. “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6.8 NASB95). With each new dawn comes a gentle reminder—His mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3.22-23)—to take another step toward the God who has already reached out to you. Trust that the One who presents the choice also walks alongside you on this journey.

10,000 Reasons To Forgive

Carl Pollard

How many sins did you commit last week? Intentional or not, the number’s probably higher than you’d care to admit. Now think about this year—four months in, how many times have you let God down? Sin’s no small thing. It defies God’s holy nature, builds a wall between us and Him, and tears us apart from the inside. We love picturing God as all about love—and He is—but Proverbs 6:16-19 lists seven things He hates: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that spill innocent blood, a scheming heart, feet racing to evil, a false witness, and someone who stirs up division. Done any of those lately? Zoom out to your whole life—how many sins would fill your book? The weight of that debt is crushing and “unpayable.”

Jesus tells a story in Matthew 18:21-35 that hits this hard. Peter asks, “How often should I forgive my brother?” Thinking he’s generous, he suggests seven times—way past the rabbis’ three. Jesus shuts that down: “Not seven, but seventy times seven.” Don’t count—just forgive. Then He goes on to teach about a servant who owes his king 10,000 talents—60 million days’ wages, an impossible debt. The king could’ve sold him and his family, but instead, he forgives it all out of sheer compassion. What does the servant do? He chokes a guy who owes him pocket change—100 denarii—and throws him in prison. Same plea, “Be patient,” but no mercy. The king hears, calls him wicked, and reinstates the debt. Jesus ends it blunt: “So My Father will do to you if you don’t forgive from the heart.”

Our sin debt’s like that 60 million days—”unpayable.” Yet God forgives it through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Ephesians 2 says it’s grace, not our effort. But here’s the point: if we’ve been forgiven that much, how can we not forgive others? That servant’s hypocrisy is ours when we hold grudges or burn bridges. Jesus says the standard we use on others is the one God’ll use on us. If we can’t release someone’s debt against us, our own forgiveness hangs in the balance. 

How often do we forgive? Don’t count—God doesn’t count your sins against you. He releases the debt every time we ask. We’ve got to do the same.

The Most Beautiful Attribute?

Can something commanded also be a thing of beauty? Paul indicates as much to a young man he mentored, showing us how versatile and needed this quality is in a world which needs it to stand out.

Neal Pollard

Some of the most breathtaking moments of my life have been walking through a mountain meadow in summertime. In those high altitudes where snow falls in abundance for many months, the resulting flowers that briefly bloom there seem to stand out all the more against the high, rocky backdrops. While majestic in their own right, those crags and peaks are accented and highlighted by the reds, purples, pinks, violets, and yellows that dot the paths and cling to the alpine hillsides (cf. Matt. 6:29-30). We are set apart from the world and set apart to glorify Him, in part by living holy, consecrated lives. These appropriate beliefs and devout practices that stand out in our world are called “godliness,” an attribute that even bears God’s glorious name.

1 Timothy was written by Paul to Timothy, a young preacher for the church at Ephesus. In 1 Timothy 3:15, he states that the purpose of his writing was to reveal what was proper conduct in the church that belongs to God, and so it is no surprise to see that Paul fills the letter with instructions about how to behave. And it’s also not a surprise that the word “good” occurs 20 times in the letter, and godliness 15 times. Godliness seems to play an especially key role in Paul’s message. 

  • Paul previews what he says in the heart of the letter by saying law exists for, among other, the “ungodly” (1:9).
  • Starting in chapter two, getting down to business (“First of all,” 2:1), he says our attitude toward those in government must be “in all godliness” (2:2) and that Christian women conduct themselves in a way that makes good their claim to “godliness” (2:10).
  • Elders (3:4) and deacons (3:8) must be men of “dignity” (same word), and the women addressed in 3:11 must likewise be “dignified” (same word). Jesus is the embodiment of the “mystery of godliness” (16). 
  • In chapter four, godliness is defined as distinguishing between what lasts and what will not last (4:7-8).
  • In chapter five, godliness is tied to properly treating and caring for our family (5:5–“show piety”).
  • In chapter six, godliness relates to having the right attitude toward wealth and material things (6:3,5,6,11)

Taken as a whole, Paul shows godliness to be crucial in our church life and roles, our personal devotional life, the doctrine we teach, the things we prioritize, the role models we follow, and the way we treat our family. Clearly, godliness must be a part of every facet of our lives; it’s what and who we must be. Nothing is more beautiful than a life that reflects God in thoughts, words, and deeds. Let’s let His Word guide us so that we will properly conduct ourselves as children in His house. 

The Season of Impermanence:

What does an ancient oriental custom have to do with time management and the appreciation of the preciousness of time? No one can make the connection like Brent. Read more and be challenged by his unique perspective.

Reflections Beneath the Cherry Blossoms on Time, Purpose, and Eternity

Brent Pollard

In a poem, a twelfth-century Buddhist monk named Hoshi Saigyo stated that the cherry tree, or Sakura, only had one problem: it caused people to gather. Saigyo was undoubtedly referring to the ancient practice of hanami, which translates as “flower viewing.”

Indeed, people have gathered to view the lovely sakura blooms since at least the Heian period (794–1185 AD). Regarding motivation, the Japanese value the ephemeral quality of all flowers, especially cherry blossoms.

Each year, the Japanese Meteorological Corporation releases a calendar that estimates the bloom dates for sakura, reflecting Japan’s cultural reverence for impermanence. While the residents of Japan’s northernmost climes, such as Hokkaido, usually have to wait until the end of April or the first of May to see sakura flowers, people in Okinawa come together as early as mid-January to view the hikanzakura—also known as the Taiwan cherry—blossoms. Outside of the cherry trees gifted from Japan within the Tidal Basin of Washington, D.C., or the same variety of cherries planted in sufficient numbers for Macon, Georgia, to host the International Cherry Blossom Festival, one wishing to emulate the practice of hanami might well substitute another flowering tree, such as the plum or dogwood.

Some Japanese are so committed to hanami that they will travel throughout Japan’s 47 prefectures to catch the various cherry blossom spots. As for what hanami entails beyond the camera, one brings all the accouterments of a ground picnic: blankets and bentos (lunch boxes). Should you wish to participate in the celebrations, please be advised that some locations are so popular that people camp out early to secure a prime viewing spot. The most beloved of these blossoms is the Somei Yoshino, or Yoshino cherry—a variety whose pale petals are as fleeting as they are breathtaking.

In Japanese culture, the cherry blossom season marks the beginning of numerous significant life transitions. Since the academic and fiscal years begin in the spring, sakura is often associated with new responsibilities, personal growth, and the transition into adulthood—a theme not unlike the “season for everything” described in Ecclesiastes 3. It is common in Japanese films or anime to show two characters—possibly destined lovers—meeting beneath the cherry trees, their encounter tinged with beauty and impermanence as delicate pink petals fall around them. Such moments may seem mystical, but they reflect a more profound truth: Life moves quickly, bringing opportunities we must seize or let slip away. For Christians, this symbolism echoes the call to live purposefully and steward each season well—particularly those that signal the beginning of new responsibilities or callings.

The well-known Latin phrase carpe diem, meaning “seize the day,” may serve as a fitting analogy for the Japanese passion for flower viewing. Those of us in Christendom can better understand this concept through the eyes of the wise King Solomon. In Ecclesiastes 9.10, Solomon says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol where you are going” (NASB95).

In other words, as the beauty of the sakura flower is fleeting, so too are our lives (see James 4.14). Though perhaps unspoken, the practice of hanami reminds participants of the impermanence of life, teaching us to hold what we have with reverence. In this way, hanami reflects a deeply rooted Zen sensibility that embraces transience not as a cause for sorrow but as an invitation to be fully present. For those of us shaped by Christian thought, this quiet awareness harmonizes with the wisdom of Ecclesiastes: that life, though brief, is to be lived with purpose, gratitude, and wholehearted devotion (see Ecclesiastes 12.13-14).

Given this potentially upsetting truth for some, it is clear how important it is to manage our time effectively. In the context of Ephesians 5.15-17, the Apostle Paul suggests that we make the most of our time by walking—or acting—wisely. Moses tells us in Psalm 90 that we are likely to live 70 years, but if we are strong, we may live to 80 (Psalm 90.10). Even so, there is no guarantee. Each of us has a set appointment with death (Hebrews 9.27) unless God’s will allows the second coming of Christ to occur first.

Thus, would you hoard the Gospel’s sacred treasure? How quickly could you overcome procrastination if you knew tomorrow would never come? How soon would you mend your broken relationships? Would you remain silent in the face of the wicked’s schemes? The questions linger—sobering, urgent, and real.

Indeed, the words of Laura E. Newell from the hymn “As the Life of a Flower” ring true: “As the life of a flower, as a breath or a sigh, so the years that we live as a dream hasten by; true, today we are here, but tomorrow may see just a grave in the vale, and a memory of me.”

The Battle We Fight

Carl says, “Many Christians go about their daily lives completely unaware of the spiritual battles raging around them. It seems we’ve underestimated the impact this war has on our lives.” What can we do about it?

Carl Pollard

Many Christians go about their daily lives completely unaware of the spiritual battles raging around them. It seems we’ve underestimated the impact this war has on our lives. Imagine if World War III were to break out; there wouldn’t be a single person in this country who wouldn’t know about it. It would dominate the news, fill the papers, and be the talk of every household and workplace. We’d see evidence of war in videos, photos, soldiers writing home, and leaders addressing the nation. There would be no doubt that we were at war.

Now, what if I told you that, as true Christians, we already see the signs of a spiritual war? It’s evident on social media, in our homes, in the films we watch, and in the curriculum being taught to our children. Evidence of spiritual warfare is all around us, yet we often choose to live as if it doesn’t exist.

April 18, 1775, Paul Revere was awakened and warned that the British troops were coming by sea. He mounted his horse and rode through the countryside shouting, “The British are coming!” Imagine the militia hearing this news, springing into action, getting dressed, and grabbing their weapons, ready to fight.

Ephesians 6:10-18 serves as our warning that the enemy is approaching. This passage of scripture is meant to prepare us for battle. The enemy is not just coming; he is already here. Are you ready?

One of the most powerful stories in the Old Testament is that of Elisha and his servant in 2 Kings 6:17-20. Surrounded by a Syrian army, Elisha’s servant panicked, questioning how they could possibly defeat such an overwhelming force. Elisha prayed, “Lord, open his eyes; there are more with us than there are with them.” When the servant looked up, he saw the spiritual realm filled with chariots of fire and an army of angels ready to fight.

Just as there is an invisible army of God, there’s also an invisible army of Satan. We must open our eyes to the spiritual forces of evil poised to destroy our faith. 

Do we live as if we’re at war? How often do we recognize that the enemy is attacking us? This happens in the videos you watch in solitude, in the thoughts that drift through your mind, in the anger you harbor towards others, and in the gossip you spread. Do you see the enemy at work? We must be more vigilant.

Satan and his demons have a grip on so many lives, so what do we do? Three quick points from Ephesians 6:10-13 regarding our spiritual warfare:

It Is Real

We need to understand that spiritual warfare is as real as anything else in life. Ephesians 6:10-12 tells us, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”

Notice that Paul emphasizes that our struggle isn’t against flesh and blood. If you’re a Christian, you are in a war. We face an enemy unlike any other. When you think of wrestling, recall those childhood moments spent grappling with siblings, often ending in parental intervention. This is the intensity of the fight Paul describes. He tells Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). We are engaged in a daily battle—not a physical one, but a spiritual one.

It Is Relentless

Our spiritual enemy is unwavering in his pursuit. Verse 11 states, “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Our enemy is strategic and constantly plotting. Think of Wile E. Coyote—always concocting new traps for the Road Runner. Satan does the same with us, looking for our weaknesses to exploit.

1 Peter 5:8 warns us that “the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” He studies us, waiting for moments of vulnerability to strike. The battle is unceasing, and he is cunning, using lies to manipulate our thoughts and emotions. We must recognize how he attacks our families, our children, and us personally.

Be Resolved

James 4:7 instructs us to “resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” It’s not you he fears; it’s the power of God within you. God equips us with spiritual armor to withstand the enemy. We need to be steadfast, recognizing that little by little, day by day, we are defeating Satan.

Ephesians 6:10-11 presents three critical commands for spiritual warfare:

1. “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” Remember, you cannot win this battle alone; victory comes through Christ.

2. “Put on the full armor of God.” Utilize what God has provided—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Spirit.

3. “Take your stand.” We’re called to stand firm, and Paul emphasizes this 4 different times in this section of scripture. 

Do you see the battle that is all around us? Open your eyes to the reality we find ourselves in and pick up your weapons. God has won, but we must be prepared to face our enemy.

Words To Live By

“What words do you live by?” That is the question, isn’t it? Everybody lives by some credo or philosophy. Dale shares some unbeatable wisdom from a perfectly impeccable source.

Dale Pollard

“When in doubt at least try to look intelligent.” 

“If you can’t be kind then be vague.”

I came across those two quotes after searching for examples of “words to live by.” Those are okay, but Solomon does a little better. Here are some words from the Word you can live by— taken from Ecclesiastes 12.9-14. 

GOD’S WORD IS WORTH THE EFFORT  

“Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs.”

Literal meaning of… 

Pondered: weighed 

Searched out: investigated 

Set in order: made a straight path 

LIVE BY GOD’S WORD & SHARE IT CAREFULLY  

“The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.”

GOD’S WORD WAS DESIGNED WITH DIRECTION IN MIND 

“The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.”

GOD’S WORD ARE THE ONLY WORDS YOU NEED TO LIVE BY 

(excuse the poor grammar) 

“My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.”

Don’t exhaust yourself looking for the answers you had the whole time. God made it simple and practical by compiling them into one handy collection. 

GOD’S WORD IS EVERYTHING FOR EVERYBODY 

“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”

LIVE IN VIEW OF GOD’S JUDGEMENT  

“For God will bring every deed into judgment, within every secret thing, whether good or evil.”

What words do you live by? 

Tempests And Tornadoes

Neal Pollard

In 2009, Gary, Dale, and I took a scenic route back from Neosho, Missouri, where I’d held a meeting, to Denver, Colorado. It took us through Greensburg, Kansas, site of one of the most destructive tornadoes in U.S. history. That was May 4, 2007. Just two years later, the nearest city to Neosho, Joplin, would experience one of the deadliest tornadoes in modern times. 160 people lost their lives. I have been to Moore, Oklahoma, several times. From 1998 to 2015, this Oklahoma City suburb experienced nine tornadoes, three of them large enough to take lives. One in 1999 claimed 46 lives, and another in 2013 claimed 24. Of course, we experienced a deadly, destructive tornado here in Bowling Green less than four years ago.

The Bible doesn’t use the word tornado (or hurricane). But, it does speak of violent windstorms (Zech. 7:14; Mark 4:37ff), tempests (Job 9:17; Psa. 55:8), whirlwinds (Hos. 8:7), thunderstorms (Exo. 9:18; Job 37:1ff), hailstorms (Psa. 148:8; Hag. 2:17), and similar natural events. Whether the ancients experienced an EF-5 or not, they saw the destructive force of nature often enough. Inevitably, inspired writers compared the trials and difficulties of life to storms. Think of some compelling parallels.

  • Both can come suddenly and unexpectedly.
  • Both can inflict damage that leave lasting consequences.
  • Both can evoke strong emotions like anxiety, fear, distress, and sorrow.
  • Both awake in us feelings of dependency and inadequacy.
  • Both should heighten our awareness of the God who rules wind, water, and world.
  • Both are no respecters of our status, education, income, age, etc.
  • Both are confronted better with adequate shelter and protection.

No doubt, this is an incomplete list. But, God’s wisdom included the inspired illustrations of physical storms to prepare us for the storms of life. Isaiah foresees a glorious future “like a refuge from the wind and a shelter from the storm, like streams of water in a dry country, like the shade of a huge rock in a parched land” (Isa. 32:2). In the face of a host of potential threats, the psalmist asserts, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” (Psalm 91:1-2).

Perhaps you are facing something that you’d liken to a tornado or tempest in your inmost being. This will continue as long as we’re in this body on this earth and this life. God does not promise us exemption from their presence, but He does promise us escape from their power. If you are in the midst of the storm, hold onto Him. He promises that you will survive and that ultimately you will triumph.

Zechariah: The Incredible Ways Of God (XIV)

“IN THAT DAY” (PART 2)(13:1-9)

Neal Pollard

There are three beautiful blessings highlighted by Zechariah in this short chapter. Again, he signals these with his repeated phrase, “in that day.” Often, he prefaces that by saying “it will come about.” He is underlining what the Messianic age would look like. When Christ came, what could be expected?

A Fountain Free (1). Jeremiah had used the fountain metaphor in his writings before captivity (2:13; 17:13; So will Joel 3:18). Have you ever wondered why we sing, “There’s a fountain free, ’tis for you and me?” No New Testament uses that imagery and applies it to Christ (the only reference to a fountain is James 3:11). This passage was undoubtedly pivotal. This fountain would be for sin and impurity. Jesus calls Himself living water (John 4:10-11), but Zechariah will deal with that (14:8). John will invoke the fountain imagery in Revelation 7:17. The promise? The Messiah would be the means of cleaning men from their sins (Eph. 5:26; Heb. 9:14; 1 Jn. 1:7,9). 

The End Of Idolatry In Palestine (2). The first half of this verse explicitly promises that the days of idolatry would be over. That does not mean that sin struggles would cease, but this particular sin struggle–which had plagued Israel since before the giving of the Old Law (Ex. 32:4)–would no longer be a struggle. Hosea also shares this promise (2:16ff). Jesus combatted shallow righteousness among the religious leaders of His day (Mat. 5:20), but not idolatry. They learned their lesson once for all by the time Messiah came.

The End Of Prophecy And Unclean Spirits (2-6). I believe Homer Hailey is right in what the second half of verse two means. Brother Hailey wrote, “In the conquest of Christ over Satan and his forces, unclean spirits have ceased to control men as they did in the time of the ministry of Christ and the apostles” (A Commentary On The Minor Prophets, 392). When Jesus comes on the scene, unclean spirits inhabit individuals. This provides Christ an opportunity to demonstrate His power over Satan. The apostles would also demonstrate that power, as we see Luke record multiple times in Acts. This is certain. The ceasing of miracles would have to coincide with the disappearance of unclean spirits or you would have Satan possessing more power in this world than Christ does. Paul wrote that miracles, including prophecy, would cease (1 Cor. 13:8-13). Zechariah said there would be no unclean spirits overtaking people, thus no need to cast them out. Visions and prophecy would be replaced with a complete, written revelation of God’s will “in that day.”

A Rejected Shepherd (7). The last two promises are not signaled with Zechariah’s favorite phrase. Instead, what he writes here is quoted by Matthew as the prophecy is fulfilled at Jesus’ arrest in the garden of Gethsemane. Mark records its happening (14:50-52). Matthew records Jesus’ quotation of Zechariah 13:7, foretelling the apostles that later that night they would all scatter when He was arrested (26:31). “Little ones” is a favorite way for Jesus to refer to His trusting disciples (Mat. 10:42; 18:6,10,14; Mark 9:42; etc.). Jesus invoked the Shepherd-sheep imagery in His ministry (John 10:1ff), as do His disciples later (Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 5:4; Rev. 7:17). 

A Refined People (8-9). Last of all in this chapter, we have the picture of how verse 7 would effect the followers of the Messiah. There is the immediate effect (8) and the ultimate effect (9). One sees clear parallels between these verses and Ezekiel 5, where the one-third and two-third imagery is employed. Though not in a premillennial sense, undoubtedly the words of Paul regarding “spiritual Israel” can be seen as a fulfillment of the idea here: “and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, ‘The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob. This is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins’” (Rom. 11:26-27). Though he quotes Isaiah there, it is synonymous with Zechariah’s overall message at the end of chapter 13. Those who think they want to follow Messiah will be refined in the furnace of persecution or trials or sin or priorities. Though we are 2000 years beyond the coming of the Messiah, we are subject to the same refinement. Jesus would say the majority will not come through with their faith intact (Mat. 7:13-14;22:14). But, for those who do, here is a beautiful promise: “They will call on My name, And I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ And they will say, ‘The Lord is my God'” (8b; 2 Cor. 6:16; Heb. 8:10; Rev. 21:3). 

Boldness, Generosity, And Commitment

Carl Pollard

Humanity faces its greatest challenge: sin, which creates a chasm between us and God. Yet, the church stands at the very heart of God’s divine solution to bridge this separation. In 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, we are reminded that in Christ, we are made anew, and through His church, the possibility of reconciliation with God is made real. The church is not just a body; it is where the ministry of reconciliation is both exercised and experienced.

The church plays an integral role in our ultimate salvation. Here, we are nurtured in our faith, guided by the teachings of Christ, and supported as we navigate the path toward eternal life. However, it’s disheartening to acknowledge that we often hesitate to share the remarkable gift of salvation. Now is the time for boldness!

We are God’s plan to bring the gift of life to the world! People need the church, and they need what you and I possess. Be strong and courageous as we face the unknown together as a family in Christ. Acts 4:29 encourages us, “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness.” In the preceding verses, we see Peter and John standing before the council, threatened and commanded not to speak of the gospel. But instead of cowering, the church prayed for boldness to be the light they were called to be.

As we read in Acts 4:13, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.” The boldness of Peter and John was evident, and despite their lack of formal education, God was using them in significant ways. This is a powerful reminder for us today; it doesn’t matter if you stumble over words or if you think “sanguine” refers to a type of bird—God can still use you in incredible ways! Let’s pray that, as members of His church, we will be bold and share the marvelous news of salvation, ensuring that the legacy of the early church continues in our future.

The early church was bold, but it was also known for its generosity. The church holds a distinct position as the manifestation of God’s eternal purpose, unlike any other human institution. God calls us to embody generosity in every aspect of our lives. Being part of the church means fostering a culture of generosity, where we care for one another’s needs and create an environment filled with Christ’s love. We become each other’s safety net—not just financially, but spiritually and emotionally as well. We are generous with our time, our love, our resources, and our forgiveness.

Acts 4:34-35 describes a beautiful picture: “There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.” God designed us to be a family that leans on one another, ensuring that any need is met here in our community. You’d be amazed at how powerful generosity can be as a tool for evangelism. There’s a reason God designed us this way—it draws people in.

Lastly, the early church exemplified commitment. We should strive to become a group of believers who are committed in every aspect of church life. Let us be dedicated to fellowship, encouragement, and love. We must commit ourselves to the Gospel, to our elders, and to the work of the church. It begins with each individual—no one can fulfill your role for you!

Acts 4:33 states, “And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” Reflect on this: “This is my church. It is composed of people just like me. It will be friendly if I am. It will do a great work if I work. It will make generous gifts to many causes if I am generous. It will bring others into its fellowship if I bring them. Its seats will be filled if I fill them. It will be a church of loyalty and love, of faith and service. If I who make it what it is, am filled with these, Therefore, with God’s help, I dedicate myself to the task of being all these things I want my church to be.”

What do you envision for the body of believers where you attend? Be the change you wish to see. Commit personally, regardless of what others may say or do. You are part of the body of Christ, and He desires for you to be actively involved in His work. Embrace the boldness, generosity, and commitment that defined the early church, allowing us to fulfill our calling in today’s world.

Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book I, 1)

Gary Pollard

[Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

I know that some people will try to say that God is physical somehow. This is because Moses said “Our God is a fire that destroys.” And in John’s gospel, “God is spirit, so the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” According to those people, these are clear proofs that God has a body. Fire and spirit are tangible things, and those passages say that God is those things. But I have to ask those people: what do you do with the verse that says “God is light”? The same John also wrote “God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” It’s true! God is the light that gives us an understanding of truth, at least to people who are capable of taking it in. One of the Psalms says, “Your light lets us see light.” Is there any other kind of light that can bring enlightenment? Only God’s influence can give us an understanding of what is true. His influence is what leads us to him, because he is truth itself. That’s what the expression “your light allows us to see light” means — his light is Jesus, who makes it possible for us to see the father. Just because God is called “light” doesn’t mean that it’s like the light of the sun. It would be absurd for anyone to think that sunlight gives them access to the primal source of knowledge. It would be absurd to think that sunlight could lead someone to understand truth. 

Insights From Cookout And Scripture

Carl Pollard

Have you ever been to Cookout? My first visit was shortly after my family moved to Kentucky, and I still remember the experience vividly. As we went through the drive-thru, I was struck by the sheer size of their menu. The number of options was overwhelming. Should I go for a quesadilla, a chicken wrap, a classic burger, or maybe a hot dog? And then there are the sides—crispy onion rings and fries 🤤

One of the highlights of their menu is the “Cookout Tray.” Believe it or not, there are over 54,000 different ways to customize that tray. To put that into perspective, if you decided to eat there every day and tried a different combination each time, it would take you 148 years to sample every option. With such an abundance of choices, it’s no surprise that there are websites dedicated to helping you navigate the menu!

While having options is great, sometimes the sheer number of them can be paralyzing. This feeling of being overwhelmed doesn’t just happen at fast-food joints; it mirrors the significant decisions we face in life.

Think about it: What career should I pursue? Which school is the right fit? How do I choose a spouse? What home should I buy? What car should I drive? Which church should I attend? With so many possibilities, figuring out the right direction can feel impossible.

In moments like these, the teachings of Jesus provide crucial guidance. In Matthew 7:13-14, He presents us with two distinct paths: one that leads to life and one that leads to destruction. This part of His Sermon on the Mount emphasizes the importance of making intentional choices.

“Enter through the narrow gate,” Jesus commands, showing us a critical decision we each must face.

Two Gates

  1. The Wide Gate: This path is inviting and seems easy to walk through. Many people choose this route because it feels comfortable and promises instant gratification. However, it ultimately leads to destruction.
  2. The Narrow Gate: Fewer individuals find this gate. It requires effort, commitment, and sometimes sacrifices to walk this path. Though less traveled, it leads to something far more significant—eternal life.

Two Ways

  1. The Broad Way: This path is crowded, filled with people seeking pleasure and quick fixes. Unfortunately, it leads to spiritual emptiness and destruction.
  2. The Narrow Way: While it’s challenging, this path brings real fulfillment and aligns with God’s purpose for us. It’s about growth, discipline, and faith.

Two Groups

  1. The Many: The broad way is full of travelers who might not even realize the dangers waiting for them. They can easily get distracted by worldly desires.
  2. The Few: In contrast, the narrow way is trodden by a smaller group—those who genuinely seek truth and righteousness. They face challenges because they know the promise of life is worth it.

Two Destinations

  1. Destruction: The broad way ends in spiritual death and separation from God. As Proverbs 14:12 reminds us, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death.”
  2. The narrow path leads to fulfillment and a deeper relationship with God. John 10:10 reassures us of this promise: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

“Few there are that find it.” That’s a tough pill to swallow. How few is “few”? With Noah and the flood out of an estimated ten million people, only eight were saved— 0.00008 percent of the population (Genesis 7). 

In 1 Kings 19, God reveals to Elijah that only 7,000 people in Israel remained faithful and had not bowed to Baal, amidst a population that likely exceeded ten million. So how many is few? I have no idea. But the word suggests a fraction of all people who have ever lived. 

The takeaway is clear: while we may not know how many walk the narrow path, it is our responsibility to be among the few. We are called to live authentically, reflecting Christ’s love and guiding others toward that narrow gate.

What does Cookout and Christianity have in common? Both have an endless number of decisions to make. However, when we ground ourselves in the teachings of Jesus, we can cut through the noise and distractions. The path we choose not only shapes our lives but also influences those around us.

Habakkuk: Living By Faith (III)

Do you have a “no matter what” faith? How does one develop such a faith, one that grows and develops even when life is hard? Habakkuk knows.

FAITH TRIUMPHANT (3:1-19)

Neal Pollard

Nothing has changed in the circumstances Habakkuk is wrestling with. Babylon is still coming to execute God’s wrath for Judah’s sin. Babylon is still more wicked than Judah, the catalog of sins just reviewed in the previous chapter. But we notice the change in tone in the last verse of Habakkuk 2. The prophet has gladly resigned himself to the fact that God is on the throne, still in charge and perfectly knowing what He is doing.

This transformation leads directly to the prayer with which he ends this short book. The odd notation, “according to Shigionoth,” identifies it as a highly emotional poem. BDB Lexicon speaks of it as a “wild, passionate song, with rapid changes of rhythm” (993). So dramatic was this form of poetry that it “would be a song which provoked great excitement by its performance” (Koehler, HALOT, 1414). Habakkuk has come through the thick and dangerous fog of the trial of his faith, and he emerges into the clear blue sky of confidence in God’s character and work. What does his triumphant faith look like?

Appeal (2). He petitions God out of a deep fear and reverence that is apparent throughout this prayer. Yet, he is bold enough to ask God to revive His work and make it known. He asks for mercy amid His just wrath. It’s the only two things he asks for in the whole prayer. Habakkuk will describe the wrath in the latter part of the chapter (8,12). He wants God to swiftly answer (“in the midst of the years”). 

Admiration (3-4). As he copes with God’s pending judgment, Habakkuk still has a heart to praise. He writes of God’s splendor, radiance, and unmistakable power. He is pictured as a king coming in procession, only His harbingers are the radiance and rays of His glory. 

Awe (5-12). Habakkuk’s response to the greatness of God’s power is to describe His coming in judgment. He envisions the carnage in the aftermath of God’s wrath on the disobedient. He comes with pestilence and plague (5), standing, surveying, then shattering (6), rage, anger, and wrath (8), chastisement (9), and indignation and anger (12). All creation trembled at His coming (10-11). This God with whom Habakkuk had debated is transcendent, doing what is right in the proper measure at the proper time. Habakkuk can only watch in jaw-dropping wonder. 

Acknowledgement (13-16). Habakkuk proclaims the acts of God with four “you” statements–You went forth, You struck, You pierced, and You trampled. He acted in salvation for His people and in retribution against the wicked. Habakkuk’s acknowledgement of such perfect justice is telling: “I heard and my inward parts trembled, At the sound my lips quivered. Decay enters my bones, And in my place I tremble. Because I must wait quietly for the day of distress, For the people to arise who will invade us.” Not only does he acknowledge the greatness of God, but the justice of His decision to bring about the Babylonian Captivity against his sinful brethren. 

Acceptance (17-18). Out of this comes the resignation of trusting faith. It’s a “no matter what” faith on Habakkuk’s part. These verses have become some of the best known and most quoted of the entire book (along with 1:13, 2:4, and 2:20). How can we illustrate triumphant faith? How about these words? “Though the fig tree should not blossom And there be no fruit on the vines, Though the yield of the olive should fail And the fields produce no food, Though the flock should be cut off from the fold And there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” If every earthly blessing is withheld from me, I know that God is worthy of my trust and deserving of my worship and praise. This is the faith that will cause us to live (2:4)!

Acclamation (19). Habakkuk’s final declaration is of his strength through the Lord (cf. Phil. 4:13). Though the Chaldeans are knocking on the door, ready to break it in and take them away, the prophet pictures himself (and the faithful) as those who are still standing through God’s help. Like Job, praising God despite his pain (Job 42:2), Habakkuk rises from the ashes of his perplexity and the trial of his faith. He stands on the rock solid foundation of God’s trustworthiness. After the trial, with God’s help and by God’s mercy, he will stand. 

Where am I in my faith? Is it being tested? Am I listening to God’s truth as He teaches it? If so, then, no matter what, I will triumph through Him! 

A Practical Message From Philippians Two

Pride is one of the hardest character flaws to root out. What is the principle of surrender even all about? What does Jesus teach us about this through His journey from heaven to earth? Paul tells us in Philippians 2, as Carl shares his excellent observations about it.


Carl Pollard

A Practical Message From Philippians 2 

At its core, Philippians 2 delivers a straightforward message: “Have this attitude, which was in Christ.” If we want to live out the commands in verses 1-4, we need to adopt the mindset and attitude of Jesus. Verses 5-11 guide us on how to do this by illustrating the example of servanthood that Jesus set, which aligns perfectly with our new identity in Him.

We can’t genuinely allow Christ to work through us without embracing a servant’s heart. It’s through servanthood that we realize the purpose for which God saved us. While we can’t live the exact life Jesus did—His ministry was one of a kind, and His divine power is beyond our reach—we can strive to embody His mindset. We may not have His unique abilities, but we can certainly adopt His perspective towards others.

So, what was Jesus’ attitude? He was a servant in every way, and we are called to imitate Him. But what does being a servant really mean?

Surrendering My Rights for Others

In verse 6, it says, “Who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped.” We live in a world that often champions individual rights and personal gain. The idea of giving up our rights for the sake of others feels foreign to us. Yet, Jesus exemplified ultimate selflessness and humility. Despite being fully divine, He chose not to cling to His rights as the Son of God but instead humbled Himself for our benefit.

This attitude is rare, but we’re called to embody it. Jesus shows us the principle of surrender. He had every right to demand respect and worship, yet He chose to serve. We might feel entitled to recognition for our good deeds, but if anyone deserved praise, it was Jesus. Still, we find Him washing feet and enduring suffering for our sake.

We should be ready to endure unfairness and let go of our rights for others. Whether it’s giving up the best camping chair for a friend or saving the prime cut of brisket for someone else, we need to embrace the mindset Christ modeled for us.

Becoming Less So Others Can Become More

Verse 7 states, “But emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” Let’s pause and consider the depth of Christ’s humility. He made Himself “nothing.” This doesn’t mean He lost His identity or value; rather, He chose to become a servant, shifting from the King of Kings to the Servant of Servants.

This level of humility is unmatched. Nothing we do can compare to what Jesus did by becoming human. Think of the show “Undercover Boss,” where executives go undercover to see their companies from a different perspective. In a much more profound way, Jesus did this by taking on human form and prioritizing the needs of others above His own.

Serving others involves letting go of our need for recognition. We often dislike feeling overlooked, which prompts us to seek validation. But when we choose to become less so others can become more, we align ourselves with God’s purpose.

Emptying Myself No Matter the Cost

Verse 8 tells us, “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” The depth of Christ’s humility and obedience is evident in what He was willing to endure for humanity. He didn’t just take on human form; He emptied Himself completely, even to the point of dying on a cross.

What does it mean to empty ourselves? It means letting go of personal ambitions and desires, making room for the will of the Father. While we might not face a literal cross, Jesus still calls us to take up our cross daily. The cross reveals God’s true nature: He is love. He came to give Himself for us, to die for us, because that’s what it took to redeem us from our sins.

There’s nothing He’ll ever ask of us that costs as much as what He sacrificed. We can never give as much as He did, but we must be willing to respond to His call, no matter the cost. Many of us set limits on how we serve, convincing ourselves that God wouldn’t ask us to step outside our comfort zones. This selective obedience isn’t real obedience.

Genuine discipleship is about following Christ without reservations—whatever the cost, whenever the call. With Jesus, it’s all or nothing.

Let’s be honest: being a servant doesn’t sound all that enjoyable, does it? It requires sacrifice, determination, and selflessness—traits that don’t come easily to us. But here’s the good news in verses 9-11: “Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name… that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Because Jesus was obedient, humbled Himself, and was willing to pay the price, He was exalted. The Father has given Him the name above all names, reminding us that God rewards our humble, obedient service.

Proverbs 22:4 tells us, “The result of humility is the fear of the LORD along with wealth, honor, and life.” In Matthew 23:11, we learn, “The greatest among you will be your servant.” And James 4:10 encourages us to “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.”

If you become the servant Jesus wants you to be, you will experience blessings not only in this life but also in eternity.

Meek Like Jesus

How can we respond to a world that encourages us to lift ourselves up and put others down? To bristle when corrected or to justify and rationalize our actions rather than to listen and consider? As often is the case, we need to visit with Jesus.

Neal Pollard

Meek Like Jesus

Neal Pollard

We live in an age where we are not conditioned to take correction humbly. Instead, we can quickly become full of defensiveness and self-justification. We may even become indignant at the approach of someone, especially if we find ourselves in some way superior to them. It is also an age where humbling and lowering ourselves for the good and benefit of another is not particularly attractive, especially if it is not wallpapered on a social media platform. We may be quick to let others know our value and importance, but to praise and uphold someone else is undesirable. This can often lead us to be impatient with the perceived shortcomings of people that annoy us and put us out. How many do not know or have forgotten these words, that “pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverted mouth” God hates (Prov. 8:13).

In contrast, consider a statement Jesus makes about Himself and a similar statement Paul makes about Jesus. First, think about Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:29: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Look especially at the words “gentle” and “humble.” Gentle, quoting the NASB, is “meek” in the KJV. It is an adjective here, and Paul uses the noun form in 2 Corinthians 10:1. “It is a condition of mind and heart which demonstrates gentleness, not in weakness, but in power. It is a balance born in strength of character” (Zodhiates, WSNTDICT, np). This is one of the beatitudes Jesus calls on us to have (Mat. 5:5; 1 Pet. 3:4). He exhibits it Himself as He enters Jerusalem the last week of His life (Mat. 21:5). Both times it is used of disciples, it is either rewarded or highly esteemed by God. The noun form (gentleness/meekness) gives us a fuller understanding. It is a “gentleness of attitude and behavior, in contrast with harshness in one’s dealings with others” (Louw-Nida, 748).

The second word there in Matthew 11:28 is “humble,” which when used literally spoke of a person who was short in stature. It was the word for the lowly and the poor, one with no social standing. It speaks of insignificance. But, Jesus combines this word with gentle to say that this is how He saw Himself. Paul uses the same word in 2 Corinthians 10:1, when he says he is “meek” when face to face with those Christians.  He was unpretentious in behavior (TDNT). 

The last word, the one Paul uses in 2 Corinthians 10:1 along with Jesus’ word meek (gentle), is “gentleness.” The word suggests “the harmonious disposition of character and frame of mind…” that “becomes, in relation with neighbors, an accommodating attitude, a happy harmony” (Spicq and Ernest, TLNT, np). Consider this explanation of the word. Trench ties this word to God’s grace, retreating from strictness against sinful men, making allowances for our imperfect righteousness, and His refusal to exact extreme penalties when He has every right (cf. Synonyms, 155). It is gracious forbearance, granting clemency or pardon. Paul urged Corinth “by the meekness and gentleness of Christ.”

Let’s put all this together. What Jesus possessed and demonstrated, what we are called to imitate, is a gentleness in attitude and action when dealing with others. This comes from not thinking too highly of ourselves and our talents, intelligence, and influence (Rom. 12:3,16). Out of this we cut people slack and give them the benefit of the doubt. If the perfect Son of God was characterized this way, I need to walk in His footsteps. This will help me when someone corrects me or if I need to correct someone else (2 Tim. 2:24). I look honestly at myself, knowing that I have strengths but I also have weaknesses–just like those I deal with each day. Gentle, humble, meek, and forbearing. That was Jesus. That should be me, too. 

Responding To His Message

No matter what we say, how we respond to what Jesus teaches determines our faithfulness to Him. Why is this so hard sometimes?

Carl Pollard

Throughout scripture, Christians are called not only to hear the word of God but to obey it. James 1:22-25 emphasizes this imperative: “But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. Because if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man looking at his own face in the mirror; for he looks at himself, goes away, and right away forgets what kind of man he was. But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who acts – this person will be blessed in what he does.”

In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus reinforces this message, stating that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father. This highlights a critical truth: many Christians possess extensive knowledge yet fail to practice it. 

Experiential knowledge, the kind that transforms and deepens our relationship with God, comes from faithful obedience. It is during trials—losing a loved one, facing financial difficulties, or battling inner turmoil—that we truly come to know the Father. By holding fast to God in these moments, we can experience His presence and faithfulness.

The problem of hypocrisy in the church is often misdiagnosed as a lack of knowledge. However, we have access to the Bible and factual teaching. The real struggle lies in acting upon what we know. We understand that we are called to love one another as God loves us, to pray, to act as a family, to practice self-control, and to forgive others. Yet, the question remains: why do we fall short?

The answer is clear: it isn’t a matter of knowledge but of action. Jesus presents two responses to His message: to hear and obey or to hear and disobey—there is no middle ground. 

What may be difficult to hear is that Jesus isn’t concerned with our Christian labels on social media, or even our daily Bible reading plan. While these are well and good, many people claim these without authentic faith. What Jesus desires is fruit—tangible evidence of His teachings reflected in our lives.

In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus likens those who hear and obey to a wise man who builds his house on rock. When storms come, this house stands firm. Conversely, those who hear but do not obey will find their lives dismantled by life’s adversities. The foundation of our lives must be built on the truth found in God’s word, and the building blocks of that foundation are obedience.

The authenticity of our discipleship is revealed in our responses to Jesus’ teachings. If we do not love our neighbors as ourselves, forgive as we have been forgiven, or harbor anger and resentment, we must face a sobering reality: despite our claims, we are not true disciples of Christ. His disciples practice what He preached.

Jesus invites us to examine our lives: Are we listening to His words and responding with faithful obedience? The call to action is clear, and it is through our obedience that we demonstrate our genuine commitment to Him.

“Udderly” Dependent!

“When things go well, I almost get to the point where I get complacent and maybe a bit overconfident. When things don’t go so well, I remember how dependent I am upon God and others.” That’s true of more than milking a cow.

Neal Pollard

In only my second winter as a “dairy farmer” (a term used only in the loosest sense), I forgot some of the hard fought lessons of the first winter. Most of them center around how to keep a milk machine working when temperatures plunge below freezing. I will not begin to try and explain (as if I fully understood) how the vacuum pump and hoses work, but I do know that water and ice are enemies of suction and pumping. A freshened cow needs to be milked about every twelve hours, and the alternative to a machine is the old-fashioned way (by hand). That is not my first choice.

This past weekend, I had some trying moments doing what I could to figure out the problem(s) in the milking machine. Prayer, troubleshooting, help from my son Gary, and consulting Jeremy Waddell all were key factors in keeping my sanity and keeping me from selling Peaches! When things go well, I almost get to the point where I get complacent and maybe a bit overconfident. When things don’t go so well, I remember how dependent I am upon God and others. It keeps me from taking milking and the milk for granted.

If I am honest, this mirrors life in general. The past teaches me lessons which, if learned, prepares me for present and future trials. If I fail to internalize that education, I am sure to falter in similar circumstances. Have you ever forgotten a valuable lesson from the past, only to remember it when repeating a mistake, sin, or lapse in judgment? Peter illustrates this graphically with a dog and a pig in 2 Peter 2:20-22!

Sometimes, the lapses in my prayer life parallel times of prosperity, ease, and happiness. Complacency can easily set in when life is good. I may forget my need of God when I’m healthy, thriving, and enjoying His good and perfect gifts (cf. Jas. 1:17). I should not need crises and difficulties to drive me to my knees in His presence. We are taught by example (Acts 1:14) and exhortation (Rom. 12:12) to be devoted to prayer! That devotion suggests intense effort, even in difficult circumstances.

How easy it is to try and do life without asking for others’ help. We’ve seen people take advantage of others and be overly dependent, but we should guard against pride. It could be that we don’t want to appear weak or somehow less than. Paul needed Epaphroditus (Ph. 2:25). Jesus depended on the support of the women in Luke 8:1-3.

The last few times milking have been back to normal, uneventful in that blissful way it has so often come to be. As I type, I cannot imagine forgetting again! But I have forgotten before. May I not forget my need of God and His people, especially in matters that affect my spiritual life!

Light Of The World, Season 5, Episode 2

Have you done a study of baptism in the New Testament? Join Hiram and Neal as they discuss this vital subject on “The Light Of The World.”

I Am Resolved…

Neal Pollard

Is there anything you would like to change in your life right now in view of your end? We are in uncharted waters, now several days into 2025. Will it be a year of mediocrity or magnificence, of collapse or conquest? In Philippians 3:12-16, you hear resolution in Paul’s words. He says, “I press on, I do not regard, I do, I press on…” These are the words of a determined man, and what an example they provide for us. As you face the rest of 2025, don’t you do so with an intense desire to try and excel in service God? There is great hope and motivation in Paul’s words in Philippians three.

I am resolved…

  • Not to rest on my laurels (12). Paul has just reviewed his resume, his heritage (5), zeal (6), and accomplishments (7). The humbling factor for him was all Christ had done for him and could do through him (8-9). He also knew he had such a long way to go in knowing Jesus (10). Think of what he had already done by the time he wrote this–establishing churches around the world, encouraging men to preach and lead, and paying a hefty price for being a Christian (he’s writing this from prison!). He’s put in jail from prison, and what does he say? “I know I’ve not arrived at my goal.” I want that attitude this year. I’ve only accomplished a fraction of a sliver of what Paul had done, if anything at all! It’s easy to become more like Laodicea (Rev. 3:17) or like Zephaniah’s audience (1:12). As God looks in my life, I don’t want him to see lukewarmness and complacency!
  • To put forth effort (12-13). Twice, Paul uses the word “press” in this context. It’s found 45 times in the New Testament, almost always translated “persecute” or “pursue” (Paul says he “persecuted” the church in 3:6; same word). The word means to move with speed and intensity toward an objective. My goal is to be active, giving more than taking. I want to be seen by the elders and deacons as an asset and assistance to their work. I want the church to feel like they can rely on me to do my part. Twelve months from now, I want to be able to measure tangible progress!
  • To forget the past (13). For Paul here, that meant forgetting previous accomplishments (4-7). But in many other writings, Paul talks about his past sins and mistakes. He often recalled how he hurt the church and by that hurt Christ. There are things in my past that haunt me and fill me with regret. I have been guilty of doing things I shouldn’t and neglecting things I should’ve done. The past can be more responsible for negatively affecting our present and future than anything else. Ironic, isn’t it? I also think I’ve done positive things, things to be proud of in ministry and personally. In both cases, Jesus tells me not to look back (Luke 9:62). Don’t let anything in your rearview mirror keep you from fixing your eyes on the prize.
  • To be optimistic (13). Talk about optimistic. Paul’s in prison and doesn’t know if he will be set free or die (1:21-24). But he’s reaching forward to what lies ahead. He is fervent and passionate, like a runner who stretches his body toward the tape trying to cross the finish line. Are there things that make us nervous or anxious for the future? Always! Life and death will touch our lives like this, unforeseen problems will come, and unpleasant situations will strike. Every year up to now has worked that way. We’ll feel pain, sorrow and loss, just as surely as we’ll feel pleasure, joy, and gain. But we can be optimistic because there’s one factor bigger than any scary unknown–God!
  • To set lofty goals (14). As a Christian, my ultimate goal is heaven. But how do I hope to get there? More than that, what does God want me to do as long as I’m down here? He wants me to grow and mature so I can be of greater use to Him in others’ lives. I must set goals regarding my words, my attitude, and my actions. These will help the church be stronger, and it will help me get stronger. It will also inevitably draw me closer to God. What blessing could be greater?

I want my heart pricked if I have the wrong attitude until I change it (15). I need my heart and mind focused on the heavenly standard to keep me on track (16). 2025 can be the best year you have ever had in the most important way! Resolve! 

“New And Improved”

Neal Pollard

His ministry is exploding, His popularity expanding, and His teaching exposing, but His opponents are exasperating. Luke relates the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. His antagonists had already reasoned in their hearts that Jesus was a blasphemer (5:20), and now they will get more vocal in their criticism. They represented what was, the status quo. As it was, the Pharisees and scribes held sway over the people and kept them in line with their self-serving interpretation of the Old Law. Jesus comes along and changes their rules, sharing God’s truth, God’s values, and God’s priorities. It clashed with their comfortable norms.

JESUS CHANGED WHO HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO FOLLOW GOD (27-30). This starts with His calling of Levi, the tax collector. A hated class, publicans not only collected taxes from their fellow-Jews for the Roman Empire, they lived well by taking more than was required by Rome (cf. 19:8). So, they were considered traitors and thieves. Jesus gave Levi the chance to overcome his sinful past. He expands that opportunity to others, whom the Pharisees and scribes call “tax collectors and sinners” (30). This “rabble” was beneath these spiritual “giants,” but not beneath the Son of God. He wanted them to follow Him. What a needed reminder for us as we seek “prospects” to follow God today. 

JESUS CHANGED HOW ONE SHOULD LOOK AT THE LOST (30-32). Instead of hopeless and useless, Jesus saw them as spiritually sick, but valuable, souls in need of His healing. The compassion He demonstrated in helping the physical outcasts like the leper and paralytic He now shows to the spiritual outcasts like the tax collectors and the other people at Levi’s table. If anyone ever had a reason and right to look down on sinners, it was Jesus. But that seems to be the farthest thing from His mind. How do they look from our point of view? How do we show it?

JESUS CHANGED WHAT KIND OF OUTLOOK A FOLLOWER CAN HAVE (33-35). That Jesus could so freely enjoy a fellowship meal with this “rabble” clashed with their own concept of “faithfulness” (the Pharisees had disciples, too, 33).  It wasn’t that John’s approach pleased them any better (see 7:30-35), but they attempted to use John’s methodology against Jesus to pit them against each other. Jesus alludes to what lay ahead for Him, when He would no longer be with them, and what lay ahead for them when they would be persecuted for their faithfulness to Him. Though there would be tough times ahead, He wanted them to focus on the joy they could experience in their daily walk with Him. This is so helpful to us, not to worry about the troubles of the future but to strengthen our relationship with Jesus each day. This helps us now and later. 

JESUS CHANGED WHERE PEOPLE SHOULD TURN FOR TRUTH (36-39). While the scribes and Pharisees wanted people to submit to their shallow righteousness and tainted view of the Law of Moses, Jesus wanted people to accept the new revelation He came to earth to bring. He came to fulfill the law, both to reveal it and accomplish it (Mat. 5:17-18; Luke 16:15-17). What He was teaching could not be superimposed on the Old Law; such a patchwork approach did not honor the Law and did not accurately represent Jesus’ teaching. There was perfect harmony between them, but His new way was superior in every way to it. To these religious leaders, whose pride and position were at stake, that idea was repulsive. But for those truly in search of God, this was what they were looking for! 

We’re 2,000 years removed from this cultural situation. However, we must still be very careful that we do not allow the traditions and customs that we inevitably establish to be on a par with Jesus’ doctrine. That requires diligent, regular Bible study. It means approaching God’s Word without a tainted, preconceived point of view. Evaluate based on what it says, not what we prefer. This will change who we approach, how we approach them, and what we approach them with. But, oh what a great “product” we have to share! 

“Madden”

Neal Pollard

If you are a football fan and you see “Madden,” you are most likely to think video games. An annual, updated version of Madden NFL has been released since 1994, and before that it was called “John Madden Football” (from 1988 to 1994). Many of the earlier game players, those up to 2009, would have heard John Madden’s voice providing commentary. However, if you are old enough, you know that the man for whom the ever-popular video game is named was a successful head football coach for the Oakland Raiders from 1969-1978. After that, he was an NFL broadcaster for 30 years for CBS, Fox, ABC, and NBC. Before that, as diehard Madden people can tell you, he was head coach of Hancock Junior College for two years (1962-1963).

What’s the point? Over time, John Madden went from football coach to broadcaster to namesake of one of the most popular video games of all time. “Madden” means one thing to a kid with a Playstation or Xbox and another to his Raiders-loving grandpa who chants “the autumn wind is a pirate blustering in from sea, with a rollicking song he sweeps along swaggering boisterously.”

How many people, ideas, and words appeal to us differently, depending on our age, outlook, or experience. Of all these, take the name “Jesus.” To the child, He is the theme of Bible story books, the answer to every Bible class question, the subject of “Pew Packer” songs. To the skeptic or the searcher, He is an enigmatic religious figure who may be seen only as a teacher or a good man. To the nominal Christian, He is a shadowy, mysterious figure, a virtual stranger.

But to one who has walked with Him and is in an ever-deepening relationship, He is “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named…” (Eph. 1:21). He is the highly exalted one, bestowed with “the name which is above every name” (Phil. 2:9). “He is Lord of all” (Acts 10:36). He is the Christ, the Son of God (John 20:31). He is unchanging, and therefore, “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8). But, the longer and better I know Him, my connection to Him grows more intimate.

How well do you know Jesus? I don’t know how far back you go with Him, but each day should mean knowing Him better and seeing Him in a different light. God wants Him to be, “Christ in you, the hope of glory…” so that He can “present every man complete in Christ” (Col. 1:27,28).